The Gulf Flounder is oval in shape, with a depth less than half the length, and both of its eyes on the left side. The eyed side of the body is light to dark brown, olive brown or dark gray, with dark spots and blotches disappearing throughout the life. It has three small, distinct spots on its side, with 2 just behind the pectoral fin and the 3rd posterior to the lateral line.

Habitat:

Gulf flounder are found inshore on sandy or mud bottoms and are often found in tidal creeks. They may also be caught occasionally on rocky reefs.

Diet:

Carnivore: They feed primarily on amphipods, mysids and other small crustaceans at smaller sizes

Status:

Least Concern (IUCN)

Approximate Dimensions of Adult:

Length: 6-12 inchesWeight: 2-3 lbs.

Lifespan:

NA

Reproduction & Offspring:

Females mature by age 2 at sizes as small as 14.5 cm. The average length of 2-year-old individuals is around 35 cm, and the average length of 3-year-olds to be about 40 cm. Adults migrate offshore to spawn in late autumn and winter and re-enter bays during April to July. Spawning occurs offshore in the Gulf of Mexico at depths of 20 to 60m during late autumn and winter.